What causes a decrease in phosphorus levels?
Aug 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, low phosphorus levels may be caused by malnutrition, decreased absorption, nephrotic syndrome, intracellular shift of phosphorus, hypothyroidism, and other reasons. Besides these common causes, other factors such as kidney stones, uremia, and renal cell carcinoma may also contribute. When low phosphorus is detected, it is important to promptly identify the underlying cause and implement scientifically sound and effective treatments.
Generally, low phosphorus levels may be caused by malnutrition, decreased absorption, nephrotic syndrome, intracellular shift of phosphorus, hypothyroidism, and other reasons. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Malnutrition
If the body does not receive enough phosphorus or cannot absorb and utilize it properly, phosphorus levels may become low. For example, long-term dietary deficiency in phosphorus or chronic alcohol abuse can lead to decreased phosphorus. Since phosphorus is a key component of many vital substances in the human body, including bones and nucleic acids, treatment may include medications such as calcium carbonate granules or calcium gluconate oral solution, taken as directed by a physician.
2. Decreased Absorption
If the digestive system fails to absorb phosphorus normally, it can impair phosphorus uptake in the body, leading to reduced phosphorus levels. It is recommended to maintain a light diet and avoid excessive intake of spicy or irritating foods that may affect digestion and absorption. Patients may take phosphate supplements such as compound sodium hydrogen phosphate tablets or multivitamin tablets as prescribed by a doctor.
3. Nephrotic Syndrome
The kidneys are the primary organs regulating phosphate balance in the body. Nephrotic syndrome may impair kidney function and disrupt phosphorus excretion, thereby causing low phosphorus levels. Treatment may include diuretics such as furosemide tablets or bumetanide tablets, as directed by a physician.
4. Intracellular Shift of Phosphorus
For instance, using anabolic agents such as insulin, androgens, and carbohydrates—like intravenous administration of glucose, fructose, or glycerol—can trigger this shift. Additionally, refeeding syndrome or respiratory alkalosis (e.g., activation of phosphodiesterase promoting phosphorylation of glucose and fructose) may lead to respiratory alkalosis, causing phosphorus to move into cells. Patients may be treated with medications such as compound sodium hydrogen phosphate tablets or polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules under medical guidance.
5. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism slows down metabolism, reducing the rate at which stored phosphorus is released into the bloodstream, thus leading to lower phosphorus levels. Insufficient synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones T3 and T4 are among the causes of hypothyroidism. Patients may take medications such as Yikang capsules or thyroid tablets as prescribed by a doctor.
Aside from the common causes listed above, other factors such as kidney stones, uremia, or renal cell carcinoma may also contribute. When low phosphorus levels are detected, it is important to promptly identify the underlying cause and implement scientifically sound and effective treatments.
